I currently have a 1978 John Deere 312 with a 46" mower deck. Since I am a Wheel Horse guy and really do not know that much about JD garden tractors, I would like to ask a few questions about this particular model.

Since these tractors were only made from 1977-1978, are they considered "rare" or "collectable" from a collectors standpoint?

Second, what would be a price value range for one in restored condition?

Third, after looking at some pictures, I see that some of them have the engine heat shields on the sides and some do not. Did they make them one way for one year and another way for the other year?

I don't think the 312 came with side covers for the engine. It was pretty much the same basic machine as the 140 and the later 314. The 314 had the side covers and a K321 for 2 extra HP. The drivetrain is pretty solid on these with a Dana rear end and a Sundstrand 15 hydro. Weak spots are the motor mounts and driveshaft couplers and as with any old tractor the steering and hydro linkages. The 312 was the basic version of the 316(single cylinder) which had turning brakes, 2 hydraulic circuits, wider rear tires and an ammeter as standard equipment. They are rarer than the 314 which was made from 79 to 83. According to the ser no's there were up to 25000 of them made.

I don't think the 312 came with side covers for the engine. It was pretty much the same basic machine as the 140 and the later 314. The 314 had the side covers and a K321 for 2 extra HP. The drivetrain is pretty solid on these with a Dana rear end and a Sundstrand 15 hydro. Weak spots are the motor mounts and driveshaft couplers and as with any old tractor the steering and hydro linkages. The 312 was the basic version of the 316(single cylinder) which had turning brakes, 2 hydraulic circuits, wider rear tires and an ammeter as standard equipment. They are rarer than the 314 which was made from 79 to 83. According to the ser no's there were up to 25000 of them made.

Yes no side covers. Motor mounts make sure you check them. You can get them after market for about have price. I love mine been a good tractor. As far as price I wouldn't sell mine for less than $1000. And it is not completely restored.

LOL Matt!!! Don't worry, I am always going to be true to Wheel Horse! This was just a tractor that I found and it was a pretty good deal, so I thought what the heck, might as well get it! I have to admit that my WH tractors have been getting a bit jumpy since the JD has been in the garage!!

Taylor,
I just put another 1.5 hr mowing onto my 312 today. Some of my "North 40 acres" are awful rough, but the 312 handles it all well. Bought it used in 1985 for $1500 and used it hard for 27 years. Had my son overhaul the Kohler several years back, but otherwise the only thing I've replaced are belts and blades. It needs cosmetic restoration, but mechanically they just keep on going.

Last year I finally got a "new" 1993 JD 265 with excellent leaf pickup/bagger, but I still go to the 312 for easy, routine mowing.

Taylor,I just put another 1.5 hr mowing onto my 312 today. Some of my "North 40 acres" are awful rough, but the 312 handles it all well. Bought it used in 1985 for $1500 and used it hard for 27 years. Had my son overhaul the Kohler several years back, but otherwise the only thing I've replaced are belts and blades. It needs cosmetic restoration, but mechanically they just keep on going.

Last year I finally got a "new" 1993 JD 265 with excellent leaf pickup/bagger, but I still go to the 312 for easy, routine mowing.